Your Pocket Guide to the 2026 Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment
It’s that time of year again— open enrollment season for the Health Insurance Marketplace begins November 1st! Whether you’re renewing coverage or enrolling for the first time, now’s your window to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Here’s your easy-to-digest, pocket-sized guide to understanding what open enrollment means, key dates to remember, and how to make the most of your Marketplace options for 2026 coverage.
Important Dates
For most individuals and families in Florida, Open Enrollment runs from November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026.
Enroll by December 15, 2025 → Coverage begins January 1, 2026
Enroll between December 16, 2025 – January 15, 2026 → Coverage begins February 1, 2026
If you miss this window, you’ll need to wait until next year unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to a major life event — like losing job-based coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving.
Who Can Enroll?
You can purchase a Marketplace (ACA) plan if you:
Are a U.S. citizen or lawfully present
Aren’t eligible for “affordable” employer-based coverage
Even if you’ve looked before and thought coverage wasn’t affordable, check again this year. Many people qualify for tax credits and subsidies that lower premiums or out-of-pocket costs.
What’s Covered?
Every Marketplace plan must include 10 essential health benefits, such as:
Preventive care (annual checkups, vaccines, screenings)
Emergency services and hospital care
Prescription drugs
Maternity and newborn care
Mental health and substance use treatment
Pediatric care for children
These plans are designed to protect you not just from everyday expenses, but also from the unexpected — a serious illness, injury, or hospitalization.
Plan Levels Explained
Marketplace plans are divided into four “metal” tiers, based on how you and the plan share costs:
Bronze - ideal for healthy individuals who want low monthly costs
Silver - ideal for those who qualify for extra savings (cost-sharing reductions)
Gold - ideal for people who expect regular medical needs
Platinum - ideal for frequent care users who want predictable costs
Your monthly premium isn’t the whole story. Always check the deductible, copays, and network coverage to see what works best for you.
Don’t Miss Out on Savings
Through the Marketplace, many Florida families qualify for:
Premium Tax Credits — reduce your monthly payments
Cost-Sharing Reductions — lower what you pay for deductibles, copays, and prescriptions
In fact, most people who apply for Marketplace coverage receive some level of financial help. Even if your income has changed, it’s worth updating your information to see what you now qualify for.
How to Choose the Right Plan
When comparing plans, think about:
Your healthcare habits: How often do you visit doctors? Do you take regular medications?
Your provider preferences: Are your favorite doctors in-network?
Your budget: What’s manageable monthly — and what can you handle if something unexpected happens?
If you’re unsure, working with a licensed broker or advisor (like Shipley Benefits!) can make it much simpler. Kate can help you compare plans, check subsidy eligibility, and walk you through enrollment — at no extra cost to you.
Why It Matters
Going uninsured, even for a few months, can be risky. One unexpected ER visit or hospital stay can cost thousands. Having the right health coverage gives you peace of mind, financial protection, and access to care when you need it most.
Quick Takeaways
Open Enrollment in Florida: Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 15, 2026
Enroll by Dec 15 for coverage starting Jan 1
Many qualify for financial help through Marketplace subsidies
Plans cover essential benefits — including preventive care at no extra cost
Help is available — you don’t have to figure it out alone
Ready to Review Your 2026 Health Plan?
Shipley Benefits makes it easy to explore your options with confidence. Whether you’re self-employed, running a small business, or enrolling your family, we can help you find the best plan for your needs and budget— and handle the details from start to finish.
Send Kate a message below, or schedule a free enrollment consultation and make this open enrollment season stress-free!
